CAPSEA involved at FSG Elementary
Tracy Ross, Community Outreach Training Coordinator for the Citizens Against Physical, Sexual and Emotional Abuse is involved at the Francis S. Grandinetti Elementary School with the fifth grade classes teaching tolerance and conflict resolution in the Diversity/Tolerance Program.The program focuses on teaching the children to respond confidently and with success. “Social relationships are such an important part of growing up,” Ross said. “If children aren't taught about respecting differences in people, it may lead to unhealthy behavior resulting in exclusion, bullying, stereotyping, discrimination and even violence.”This year is the first year Ross has been involved at the FSG Elementary school. Ross interacts during four week durations with each of the fifth grade classes. “This is my first year here,” Ross said. “It is a new curriculum that is well suited for fifth grade. The classes do really well; they are very interactive.”The diversity tolerance program is derived from the "Planting the Seeds of Peace" curriculum that focuses on skills to resolve conflicts peacefully and with respect. “If students learn how to speak to others in an assertive and respectful manner, their conversations will be less likely to turn into a heated argument,” Ross said. Pick up a copy of the Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011 edition of The Ridgway Record for more.